'This is only the beginning': Sindhu showers prasie on Anahat after World Junior Squash title
New Delhi, July 26
Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu congratulated teenage squash star Anahat Singh after she created history by becoming the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships title, saying she had no doubt the triumph would be the first of many big victories in the youngster's career.
Sharing a heartfelt message on social media, Sindhu said she was proud of Anahat's achievement and recalled meeting her through Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) in 2022, when the squash prodigy's maturity left a lasting impression.
"I couldn't be prouder of this young champion, Anahat Singh, for winning the World Junior Squash Championships!" Sindhu wrote on X.
"One of my favourite memories of Anahat goes back to 2022, when I had the opportunity to speak with her through OGQ. Even at that age, what stood out wasn't just her extraordinary talent, but also the remarkable maturity, composure, and clarity with which she carried herself. It left a lasting impression on me," she added.
Expressing confidence that Anahat's success was only the start, Sindhu said, "I know this is only the beginning. This is the first of many, many big victories to come."
Anahat entered the tournament as the top seed and lived up to expectations with a commanding 11-3, 11-7, 11-9 victory over Egypt's second seed Ruqayya Salem in the women's final. The triumph made her the first non-Egyptian player to win the women's World Junior Squash Championships title since American Amanda Sobhy in 2010.
The Indian had already scripted history by becoming the first player from the country in 21 years to reach the final after defeating Egypt's Barb Sameh in the semifinals. By overcoming another Egyptian opponent in the title clash, Anahat also ended Egypt's dominance of the women's event, with the country having produced every champion since 2011.
The title marks a watershed moment for Indian squash, with Anahat becoming the country's first-ever women's World Junior champion and one of the brightest young talents in the sport.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Fantastic to see Indian talent emerging in non-mainstream sports. Anahat's win over Egypt's top seed in straight games shows real class. The future of Indian squash looks bright with players like her.
What a proud moment for India! It's heartwarming to see PV Sindhu mentoring young talent like this. But also makes me think - how many more Anahats are out there who don't get proper support? We need better grassroots infrastructure for all sports, not just cricket. Hope this inspires more investment in squash academies across the country.
Breaking Egypt's stranglehold on junior squash is remarkable. Anahat's composure at such a young age, as noted by Sindhu, is what separates champions from good players. Looking forward to watching her career develop!
Absolutely brilliant! Anahat is a gem from Delhi-NCR. Her journey from playing at the Siri Fort squash courts to winning world championships is truly inspiring. The OGQ support system is working wonders - first Sindhu, now guiding Anahat. Big things ahead for Indian squash! 🔥
Such a sweet gesture from Sindhu. Love how Indian sportswomen support each other across different disciplines. Anahat's win is well-deserved - first Indian in 21 years to reach the final, and then to win it? Incredible stuff!
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